Are you tired of serving the same old sides with your lasagna?
Look no further, because we’ve got a sensational collection of delicious accompaniments that will take your lasagna experience to the next level.
From crisp Caesar salads to mouthwatering garlic bread and roasted asparagus, these side dishes are sure to enhance the flavors of your lasagna and leave your taste buds begging for more.
Get ready to tantalize your senses as we dive into a world of delectable lasagna side dishes that will have you coming back for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths!
lasagna side dishes
Some popular side dishes that pair well with lasagna include Caesar salad with garlicky croutons, stewed squash, garlic bread made with homemade garlic-Parmesan butter, oven-roasted asparagus, crispy smashed Brussels sprouts, marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad, chopped kale salad with toasted breadcrumbs, skillet-roasted carrots, creamed spinach made with whipping cream and Parmesan, spring mix salad with herbed goat cheese, yeast rolls, green bean almondine, grilled wedge salad with buttermilk-blue cheese dressing, and roasted broccoli.
Key Points:
- Popular side dishes for lasagna include:
- Caesar salad with garlicky croutons.
- Stewed squash.
- Homemade garlic-Parmesan butter for garlic bread.
- Oven-roasted asparagus.
- Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts.
- Marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad.
- Chopped kale salad with toasted breadcrumbs.
- Skillet-roasted carrots.
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Pro Tips:
1. Did you know that lasagna is traditionally served as a main course in Italy and does not typically require a side dish? However, if you’re looking for a complimentary dish, a simple salad with fresh greens and cherry tomatoes can be a light and refreshing addition.
2. In some parts of Italy, lasagna is served with a side of polenta. The soft, creamy texture of polenta pairs well with the rich and robust flavors of the lasagna, creating a delightful combination.
3. For a unique side dish idea, try serving your lasagna with garlic breadsticks. These crunchy, garlicky treats are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate and add an extra element of indulgence to your meal.
4. While not a traditional side dish, some people enjoy serving lasagna with a side of marinated olives or antipasto. The salty and tangy flavors of these Mediterranean favorites can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
5. If you’re looking to add some greens to your lasagna meal, consider serving it with sautéed spinach. Gently wilted spinach with a hint of garlic can bring a fresh and nutritious element to the plate, balancing out the heartiness of the lasagna.
1. Caesar Salad with Garlicky Croutons
A classic Caesar salad is the ideal accompaniment to lasagna, providing a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy flavors. Crisp romaine lettuce is tossed with a tangy dressing made from anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
To add an extra dimension of flavor and texture, top your salad with homemade garlicky croutons. These crunchy bites of bread, seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese, will elevate the salad to new heights.
The combination of the creamy dressing, crisp lettuce, and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing and satisfying element to the meal.
- Romaine lettuce
- Tangy dressing with anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil
- Homemade garlicky croutons with garlic and Parmesan cheese
“A classic Caesar salad is the ideal accompaniment to lasagna, providing a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy flavors.”
2. Stewed Squash
For a lighter and more vegetable-focused side dish, consider preparing stewed squash. This dish provides a burst of color and sweetness that complements the savory lasagna. To prepare this dish, gently cook sliced squash in a flavorful broth until it becomes tender. Season it with herbs and spices of your choice, such as thyme or rosemary, for an added depth of flavor. The result is a comforting and nutritious side dish that perfectly complements the flavors of the lasagna.
3. Garlic Bread with Homemade Garlic-Parmesan Butter
No Italian meal is complete without a serving of garlic bread. And when it comes to lasagna, it’s no exception. Take your garlic bread to the next level by making your own garlic-Parmesan butter. Simply combine softened butter with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. Then, spread it generously over thick slices of crusty bread. Toast the bread until golden and crispy, and you’ll have a heavenly side dish that is not only flavorful but also adds a satisfying crunch to each bite of lasagna.
- Combine softened butter with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Spread the garlic-Parmesan butter generously over thick slices of crusty bread.
- Toast the bread until golden and crispy.
- Enjoy the flavorful and crunchy garlic bread as a side dish with lasagna.
4. Oven-Roasted Asparagus
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses, including lasagna.
To make this delicious side dish:
1. Preheat the oven to a hot temperature.
2. Rinse the asparagus spears and pat them dry.
3. Coat the asparagus spears in olive oil to enhance their flavor.
4. Sprinkle the spears with salt and pepper for added taste.
5. Place the seasoned asparagus on a baking sheet and roast them in the hot oven.
6. Roast until the asparagus becomes tender and slightly crispy, taking care not to overcook.
The result is a dish that maintains its natural freshness and earthy flavor while also acquiring a delightful roasted taste.
The vibrant green color of the asparagus adds visual appeal to the plate and complements the colors and flavors of the lasagna.
Enjoy this mouthwatering side dish alongside your favorite main course!
“Roasted asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses, including lasagna.”
5. Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
For a unique and flavorful side dish, crispy smashed Brussels sprouts can be served alongside lasagna. Here’s why this combination works:
- Brussels sprouts are blanched and then roasted to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- The outer leaves turn irresistibly crunchy, while the inside remains tender and packed with flavor.
- The natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts is balanced by the caramelization that occurs during roasting, resulting in a deliciously complex and nutty taste.
This unexpected side dish adds a delightful crunch to each bite of lasagna and is sure to provide a pleasant surprise to your guests.
Consider these key points:
- Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts can be a unique and flavorful side dish.
- Roasting the sprouts achieves a golden and crispy exterior.
- The balance between tenderness and crunchiness makes for a satisfying texture.
- Caramelization during roasting adds depth and complexity to the sprouts’ flavor.
- Pairing this side dish with lasagna creates a delightful combination.
“Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts provide a pleasant surprise to your guests and add a delightful crunch to each bite of lasagna.”
6. Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
A light and refreshing salad can be a perfect contrast to the rich lasagna. A marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Thinly sliced cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and crisp onions are marinated in a tangy dressing made with vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of sugar for sweetness. The crispness of the cucumber, the juiciness of the tomato, and the sharpness of the onion in this salad bring a fresh and vibrant element to the meal.
7. Chopped Kale Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs
For a healthy and nutrient-dense side dish, consider a chopped kale salad with toasted breadcrumbs. The sturdy leaves of kale are massaged with a dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and spices, which helps to soften the leaves and infuse them with flavor. Top the salad with toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch and an interesting texture contrast. This salad is not only packed with vitamins and minerals, but it also adds a vibrant and satisfying component to your lasagna meal.
8. Skillet-Roasted Carrots
Make the most of the natural sweetness of carrots by skillet-roasting them until they become caramelized and deliciously tender. To prepare this side dish, toss fresh carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then roast them in a hot skillet until they develop a golden-brown crust. The high heat helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the carrots, enhancing their sweetness and creating a rich flavor profile. The roasted carrots provide a colorful and nutrient-rich addition to your lasagna meal.
9. Creamed Spinach with Whipping Cream and Parmesan
Creamed spinach is the perfect side dish to serve alongside lasagna. The dish showcases fresh spinach leaves cooked in a rich and velvety sauce made from whipping cream and Parmesan cheese. The creaminess of the sauce enhances the heartiness of the lasagna, delivering a luxurious touch to the meal. The tender spinach combined with the creamy sauce results in a comforting and satisfying side dish.
- Creamed spinach is a creamy and comforting side dish.
- Fresh spinach leaves are cooked in a rich and velvety sauce.
- The sauce is made from whipping cream and Parmesan cheese.
- The creaminess of the sauce complements the heartiness of the lasagna.
- The combination of tender spinach and creamy sauce is both comforting and satisfying.
10. Spring Mix Salad with Herbed Goat Cheese
For a lighter and more delicate side dish, opt for a spring mix salad with herbed goat cheese. Toss together a variety of fresh spring greens, such as arugula, spinach, and mesclun, with a light vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. Crumble tangy and creamy goat cheese over the salad to add richness and depth of flavor. This refreshing salad brings a burst of freshness and vibrancy to the table, complementing the richness of the lasagna with its light and delicate flavors.
In conclusion, lasagna side dishes are an essential element of a well-rounded meal. By incorporating a diverse range of flavors, textures, and nutritional elements, these side dishes can elevate your lasagna experience to new heights. Whether you prefer a refreshing salad, savory roasted vegetables, or a creamy indulgence, the wide variety of side dishes provided here will allow you to expand your menu and create a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to impress.
- Opt for a spring mix salad with herbed goat cheese
- Toss together a variety of fresh spring greens
- Use a light vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs
- Crumble tangy and creamy goat cheese over the salad
- Complement the richness of the lasagna with the light and delicate flavors of the salad
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You may need to know these questions about lasagna side dishes
What appetizers go well with lasagna?
To add some variety to your Christmas cooking, consider switching up the appetizers that go well with lasagna. Instead of the usual antipasto, bruschetta, and stuffed mushrooms, you could try serving garlic knots, caprese skewers, or spinach and artichoke dip. These alternatives provide a fresh and delicious twist to your traditional lasagna meal, making it even more special for your holiday gathering.
What to serve with vegetable lasagna?
A light and crispy side of garlic bread would complement vegetable lasagna perfectly. This classic Italian dish adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavors of the lasagna. With its buttery garlic spread and warm bread, it provides a comforting and indulgent addition to the meal.
How should lasagna be served?
To present a delectable serving of lasagna, carefully extract it from the oven, taking caution as it will be piping hot, and gently place it onto a suitable serving dish. Enhance the flavors by pouring a luscious sauce over the lasagna. For an added touch, consider garnishing with parsley and parmesan cheese, if preferred. Now, savor this delightful dish and immerse yourself in a truly enjoyable dining experience.
What is a good appetizer platter?
A perfect appetizer platter is one that combines a variety of flavors and textures to create a memorable start to a meal. Start with a selection of cheeses, paired with slices of seasonal fruit for a hint of sweetness. Add a touch of richness with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of jam. Complete the platter with small bites like olives and nuts, providing a satisfying crunch and savory element. For a more elaborate spread, consider crafting a Mediterranean board with vibrant tabbouleh, creamy dips, a diverse cheese selection, and a colorful assortment of olives and fresh vegetables. This appetizer platter is sure to please any crowd and set the tone for an unforgettable meal.
Reference source
https://www.southernliving.com/side-dishes-for-lasagna-7569809
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/good-appetizers-with-lasagna–534169205777797491/
https://www.corriecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-vegetarian-lasagna/
https://www.amicis.com/lasagna-cooking-instructions
